Reduction of the size and shape of the pigmented skin around the nipple.

Mommy Makeover

Nipple Shape & Size

Erin Storm, PA-C

Definitive guide on Areola Reduction, including the procedure overview, benefits, risks, recovery, before & after photos, costs, and more. 

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Areola Reduction

Commonly referred to as the nipple, the areola is actually a separate part of the breast that consists of the pigmented area around the nipple. Areolae are typically several shades darker than the surrounding skin but can be much darker, lighter, or the same color as the breast. Size and color of the areolae generally does not indicate any health concerns, as areolae can come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. For some, the areolae can be a cosmetic area of concern. Some men and women are born with areolae that are asymmetrical or are subjectively large. Areola characteristics can also be affected in adulthood by pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight gain. For those who desire a change in the areola, a reduction procedure can be performed for permanent results. 

During the procedure the patient will be placed under local anesthesia, typically with a sedative as well. Patients who are combining an areola reduction with another procedure such as a breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction, general anesthesia will likely be used. The patient will be marked preoperatively with 2 concentric circles around the areola. The inner circle will denote the new size of the areola. The outer circle will be made at the edges of the areola, with the area between the inner and outer circle representing the tissue that will be excised. If the patient would like the areola to sit at a higher position on the breast, more skin will be removed at the upper portion of the areola instead of removing an even amount of tissue around the nipple. 

The skin around the areola will then be infiltrated with a local anesthetic. Incisions will be made as per the preoperative markings and the excess tissue will be undermined and removed. Next, the wound will be closed, typically with a dissolvable circular stitch that closes with a “purse string” effect. It is common for additional permanent stitches to be placed to reduce tension and future stretching of the areola. The nipple will then be covered with a simple dressing. Most patients return to work within 1-2 days of the procedure and should avoid strenuous or sexual activities for 7-10 days.

Nipple Correction

Breasts

Chest

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- Stop taking blood thinning medications 2 weeks before the procedure
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 2 days prior
- Do not eat or drink anything 6 hours prior 

Before Treatment

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- Preoperative markings to indicate new areola size
- Local anesthesia
- Incisions made around areola
- Excess tissue undermined and removed
- Dissolvable sutures to close
- Extra permanent stitch made to prevent tension
- Protective dressing applied 

During Treatment

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Immediately After Treatment

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- Return to work after 1-2 days
- No strenuous exercise for 10 days
- No sexual activity for 10 days

1-10 Days After Treatment

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- Resume exercise as tolerated after 2 weeks
- Avoid chest contact for 3-4 weeks
- Swelling may last up to 6 weeks

2 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond

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- Results are permanent
- Final results determined 1 year postoperatively once scars have completely healed
- Results affected by weight gain, pregnancy, and breastfeeding

Result Notes

An areola reduction can be performed to permanently change the size and shape of the areola. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an areola reduction. 

An areola reduction is a plastic surgery procedure to permanently alter the aesthetic of the pigmented region surrounding the nipple.

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Areola Reduction

Concerns Treated

Mommy Makeover

Nipple Shape & Size

Concerns Treated

Mommy Makeover

Nipple Shape & Size

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Areola Reduction in The AEDITION

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Areola Reduction

Concerns Treated

Mommy Makeover

Nipple Shape & Size

Concerns Treated

Mommy Makeover

Nipple Shape & Size

Discover science-backed solutions from AEDIT Medshop

Learn More About Areola Reduction in The AEDITION

Why You Should Stay Abreast Of This Nipple Projection Procedure

All About The 'Nip' Tuck: 4 Breast Procedures That Free The Nipple

A Comprehensive Guide To Breast And Nipple Reconstruction

AI Plastic Surgeon™

Scan. Simulate. Share.

Text to download The AI Plastic Surgeon by AEDIT

Learn More About
Areola Reduction in The AEDITION